What's Happening?
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued a warning to millions of Self Assessment customers about ongoing scams targeting taxpayers. Fraudsters are impersonating HMRC, offering fake refunds or demanding urgent payments to steal personal and banking information. Between August 2024 and July 2025, HMRC received over 170,000 reports of scam attempts, with more than 47,000 involving fake tax refund claims. HMRC emphasizes that it will never leave threatening voicemails, ask for financial information via text or email, or contact customers to inform them of a refund. Genuine tax refunds can be claimed securely through an HMRC online account or the free HMRC app.
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Why It's Important?
The warning from HMRC highlights the persistent threat of scams during tax season, which can lead to significant financial losses for individuals. As taxpayers prepare to file their returns, they are particularly vulnerable to fraudulent schemes. The decrease in reported scam attempts compared to the previous year suggests some improvement, but the high number of fake refund claims indicates that scammers remain active. This situation underscores the importance of vigilance and secure practices in handling personal and financial information.
What's Next?
HMRC advises customers to file their returns early to reduce the risk of being targeted by scammers. The deadline for online submissions is January 31, 2026. HMRC encourages individuals to report suspicious emails and texts to designated channels and to refer to scams guidance on GOV.UK for more information on protecting themselves. Continued public awareness and reporting are crucial in combating these fraudulent activities.
